Kalapaki Beach

This natural harbor makes for great swimming and sailing, providing surf for a variety of levels. A beach for the whole family with a stretch of sand suitable for sandcastles, volleyball and sunbathing. Beachfront dining with shops and other restaurants all within a short walking distance. Public parking. Facilities.

Cool Because

The harbor makes for great swimming and surf conditions at a beach that is easily accessible. A spot for the entire family.

Hazards

Although the shoreline is mostly protected from large surf, dangerous conditions can exist in the water. Strong currents. Dangerous waves breaking on outlying rocks, ledges and reefs. Water can become murky after heavy rains.

Surf Forecast

User Rating

The Explorer's Guide to Kauai answers all the frequently asked questions from the discussions on this website, including the questions you didn't know to ask. Plus, there's detailed Kauai vacation maps and neighborhood info...Show me!

THIS BEACH IS VERY GOOD FOR BODYBOARDING MAYBE YOU WANNA ADD BODY BOARDING

Marie

Feb 04, 2007 12:14PM

I visited Kauai in December. A lot of the other beaches had high surf so I ended up discovering Kalapaki, which was much calmer. What a great beach! The picture doesn't even do it justice.

MaryGrace

Jun 02, 2007 10:29AM

My fiance and I are considering honeymooning in Sept / Oct 2007 at the Kauai Marriot which is on this beach. What is the water temperature like at this time of year? And are the waters crystal clear like Waikiki Beach?

@ MaryGrace: The water temperature during your vacaation will be around 75 degrees. This beach is located next to Kauai's largest harbor which make the water very murky. But everything is relative, so yes, the water is as clear as Waikiki Beach. But Waikiki is not very crystal.

MaryGrace

Jun 17, 2007 5:04PM

Thanks! What beach(es) would you recommend for crystal clear water?

Kauai Explorer Staff

Jun 18, 2007 10:53PM

There are many factors that make the water clear or murky. Onshore winds and chop, currents, surf, and runoff from streams / agriculture all affect the clarity of the water. Poipu and Haena consistently offer very clear water - but there certainly are exceptions to that.

Truesdale Family

Jun 22, 2007 11:23AM

Our family is thinking about visiting Hawaii for the 1st time. We would stay at the Kauai Marriott? What can we expect as far as weather and water tempature? Are there enough family activites for children 9 to 12?

When I visited Kauai two years ago, we ate dinner at Duke's....it overlooked a body of water. What is the body of water called and do people swim/kayak/snorkel in it? It looked like a very protected bay.

That is Kalapaki - and yes it is very protected. Good for surfing and kayaking but not the best snorkeling.

milo

Aug 22, 2007 9:10AM

it has been one time,, when u guys are right,, i live in here in kauai-- Today kalapaki is 1-2 ocassional 3.. kealia,, might have one 5 feoter today, maybe,,, but is not 3-5 either,,, now that im use to it,, i just know is always, exagerating..

Milo - not sure I understand your post. I think you are stating that we exaggerate the surf heights. First, heights are the face or front of the wave. Second, the heights are based on lifeguard reports on-location. We do not get Kalapaki reports (no lifeguards) and Kalapaki is partially inside the harbor so it is blocked from windswell. W

Lauren

Oct 09, 2007 9:56AM

Can you please tell me if this beach is within walking or bike walking distance from the Nawilliwilli Harbour where our cruise ship will dock? Thanks

We will be spending five days of our honeymoon in Kauai and are looking for a resort that is walking distance to a nice beach with calm water. I'm not the greatest swimmer, so a swimmable beach that is not dangerous is a must. Thanks so much!

Shipwrecks beach is right in front of the Hyatt. Poipu Beach Park is about 2 miles.

Ryan F.

Dec 13, 2007 10:23AM

GM Zopp, since you will be at the Hyatt in June, do pay attention to the warnings at Shipwreck's Beach. There are often large summer swells that come into that area and it can be quite dangerous. The surf breaks right on shore and can be fun for boogie-boarding if it isn't too big. Take a short drive down the road to Poipu Beach Park for safer conditions or just enjoy the Hyatt's incredible swimming pools and waterslide.

Beau

Dec 13, 2007 3:09PM

My wife and I are staying at the Hilton. Is the beach accessable from this hotel?

Yes - just ask the Hotel staff. East shore beaches are best when the winds are light or from the West.

michele

Jan 21, 2008 12:51AM

we are looking to travel to kauai the first couple weeks of march and our main goal is to learn how to surf. Which side of the island would you suggest for us to stay at and do you have a hotel recomendation?

Hi Michele - Hanalei Bay is prime learn-to-surf territory in March. Kalapaki also has a little surf break but the setup at Hanalei is better. We do not make suggestions on specific accommodations in this forum but Princeville has many places to stay.

Erin Kinsella

Feb 09, 2008 1:26AM

Hi! We were thinking of spending our honeymoon in Kauai but it doesn't sound like there's a lot of safe snorkelling, swimming, playing in the ocean like what we enjoyed at Kaanapali Beach in Maui last March. What are your thoughts on this? Thanks!

Hi Erin - Kauai has some amazing snorkeling and ocean-play but it is a bit more exposed than the protected waters off Kaanapali. The posts and info on Kauai Explorer definitely err towards caution because it is so tragic when a vacation is cut short by drowning or injury. If you have never been to Kauai you should check it out. W

I am staying in the Marriott with 2 teenagers in late June. They are new surfers. Will they find this a challenging surfing area? or is it a a real "beginner" area. If this is not a good spot for bigger kids - what is the next best area?

HI Jimmy. I'm assuming you mean the Marriott at Kalapaki beach. There is also a Marriott hotel in Poipu. Kalapaki is a good beginners beach. Tune in with the concierge for ocean conditions when you're there. Since it will be summer, another spot to check out would be Hanalei Bay, a popular spot for new surfers. J

Becky

Feb 22, 2008 7:40PM

I am coming to Kauai at the end of March with my two teenage daughters. They would like to learn how to surf. Where would be the best place to do this at this time of year. Also, my oldest daughter is a certified diver where would you suggest we go to do that. Thank you.

Hi Becky - for surfing try Hanalei Bay (you can get lessons through the Hanalei Surf Company). Because the conditions vary so much it's best to SCUBA with a local company that can take you to the right place. W

Craig

Mar 02, 2008 3:26AM

We'll be staying at the Kauai Marriott Resort & Beach Club the second week of March 08'. I understand snorkeling at Kalapaki Beach is not the best.....where are the best and easiest access places on Kauai to take my son, a novice snorkler?
Also, I would like to take a relatively short hike in and around Waimea Canyon with my wife and kids ( 13 and 15 ), maybe to a waterfall......any suggestions? Thanks, Craig in VA

Aloha Craig. The best snorkeling spots near your region would be Lydgate on the East side or Poipu Beach park on the South shore. As for hiking, most Waimea Canyon hikes are considered "moderate" and fairly long. There are some spectacular lookouts to the canyon clearly marked with parking lots on the road to Kokee. Stop by the Lodge in Kokee to get more info about short/easy hikes. Berry Flats is a good bet for families, but no waterfalls or vistas. Definitely drive to Kalalau Lookout. Enjoy! J

Hi Larry. This area does get more cruise ship passenger traffic than it used to, but the hotel works to make sure only guests are using their pool and facilities. Of course, the beach belongs to everyone. As for airport traffic, I haven't found it noticeable when I spend time there. The resort's central location means you can access more remote beach locations on any other part of the island in a short time by car. Enjoy your stay. J

Nancy

Apr 22, 2008 11:33AM

Aloha. I've been reading the questions and comments on this site. It's been so helpful. I'll be in Kauai (Hilton) with my husband and two teens at the end of July. (We're so excited!) I have two questions: 1) Where's the best place to take a surfing lesson for all of us. And 2) Is there a place in Kauai to take an outrigger canoe ride? (We did that in Oahu, we rode the waves in on a canoe....sooo much fun!)

Aloha Nancy. Glad the forum has been helpful. Hanalei Bay is a great place to learn to surf, but check the conditions in July as it may be completely flat. Kalapaki is another location that is a great place to learn. Tune in with the surf lesson companies who can probably steer you in the right direction for the outrigger canoe fun. J

Steve

May 02, 2008 3:26PM

My wife and I and my teenage daughter will be staying at the Pono Kai Resort in mid July of 2008. Do you recommmend a beach close by that is good for just getting in the water and having fun. We are all good swimmers and like to boogie board. Also is the beach in front of the resort good for swimming?

Aloha Steve. Are you asking about the Pono Kai resort or Kalapaki beach in front of the Marriott? It's best to speak directly to the hotel desk where you are staying to get the most updated ocean conditions about the beach there. Check Lydgate when you're on the East side, as well. J

San Diego Surfer

Jun 24, 2008 9:04PM

I will be in Kauai in Sept or Oct this year. Where is a good place to surf. I am a longboarder and my girl friend is learning. Ideally I would love a long ride, almost any size(2-20 feet). What spots would you recomend? Thanks for your help

Aloha. Sep and Oct are the months that surf begins to get big on the North shore. Not good for beginners. Kalapaki could have something for both of you, depending on specific conditions when you are here. Veer towards the South and West sides during the Fall for smaller waves. Keep in mind that conditions are changing and could be unpredictable. Stay tuned with our surf report and ask the lifeguards. J

Aloha. Sep and Oct are the months that surf begins to get big on the North shore. Not good for beginners. Kalapaki could have something for both of you, depending on specific conditions when you are here. Veer towards the South and West sides during the Fall for smaller waves. Keep in mind that conditions are changing and could be unpredictable. Stay tuned with our surf report and ask the lifeguards. J

Ryan

Aug 28, 2008 9:57PM

Hello! My fiancee and I will be honeymooning in Kauai next July. We would like to go hiking to see the Waimea Canyon (either by drive or hiking). Not sure where we would like to stay but seeing that Kalapaki Beach and Hanalei Beach look nice. How far is the Canyon from Kalapaki Beach vs Hanalei Beach? Also, is there a place on the island that tends to get rained on less? Thanks!

Ryan - Kalapaki to Waimea is about 1 hour. Hanalei to Waimea takes about 2 hours. The North shore is generally rainier than others. W

Bernard

Sep 05, 2008 5:26PM

We will be staying at the Marriott Kalapaki in mid February, with our two grandchildren (8 and 11). Is the water too dangerous for them. What do you mean by 'murky'. Can you see bottom? What's the weather like in Lihue then. Thanks.

Bernard - Kalapaki is sheltered from wind and surf exposure (only a strong SE swell really affects the bay). I don't know your grandchildren's swimming ability, but look for others swimming and consult the hotel staff regarding safe swimming and current conditions. Sometimes Kalapaki is clear, more frequently the water is on the murky side (3-4' of visibility). W

Kim

Sep 21, 2008 12:31AM

We will be at the Marriot (Kalapaki beach) over the holidays and would like to get married on New Year's Day or maybe New Year's eve. Would like to go to a luau afterwards. Second marriage for both, so something very simple, casual, we're vacationing ourselves. I've found several companies with packages, and a variety of locations. Any suggestions or referrals?

I would like to know which beach is the best to stay at during Christmas for the recreational surfer? My husband and two boys surf and want to stay at a place we can walk to. We are from San Diego California and they surf all year long.

Hi Sheli - I know there are volleyball games happening at Kalapaki and Hanalei Bay, but unsure about the South shore. Ask the Hyatt concierge. W

Ulrika

Oct 29, 2008 6:49AM

We are thinking of going to Kauai this November and wonder wich beach would be good for us. We have two young children who wants to play on the baech and in th ewater and my husband would like to go snorkeling as well.

Urika - you should probably look to stay on the South shore because you'll find calmer ocean conditions for swimming and snorkeling. South shore sunsets over Niihau are beautiful and there are some great places to explore. W

Cody

Nov 07, 2008 6:04PM

We will going to Kauai in February with our kids 8 & 10. We are stuck between staying at Waipouli Beach and Kiahuna Beach? We like to swim a bit in the ocean and boogie board. Can you do that at Waipouli Beach? They say the water is not very swimmable. Thank you.

Hi Cody - Waipouli is not great for swimming and boogie boarding but it does put you in a central location for going North of South. Kiahuna is on the South shore and will have some great snorkeling but not much surf. W

dj

Nov 15, 2008 8:34PM

staying at the marriott beach in lihue mid december. I also live in a tourist area, cape cod but I only surf in the summer months here - so even though I have been surfing four years I'm still only comfortable in clean shoulder height waves. I'm confused as to where to try surfing, it seems like kalapaki may be too smooth that time of year. Should I hire a guide as even at home it seems everyone drops in on me! thanks, dj

Hi DJ - I don't think a guide is necessary and would recommend that you head up to Hanalei Bay if the NW surf is below 10'. You can talk to the lifeguards and check the sandbars and probably find some fun stuff. Unfortunately getting dropped in on is part of surfing (unless you are just with a few people). W

Edward Mui

Jan 26, 2009 5:59PM

I am visiting Kauai in 2/2009 with my wife and our 1-year old. We both love snorkeling and beaches with fine, soft sand. Which beach would you recommend?

Hi Edward - you should look around this site a bit more. Plenty of good snorkeling locations.

David

Feb 04, 2009 2:56PM

Beng a frequent Carribbean traveler living on the East Coast (New Jersey)we decided to bite the bullet and take the flight to Kauai this year. Being used to the clear blue waters of the carribean we have alot to compare to . Staying at the Marriott Beach Resort at Lihue , can you suggest where I can find the best info about different activties. Our 12 year old son will be with us and I would like to get the best of 9 days there. I will have a jeep and do not mind driving . How long is the trip to drive around the whole Island?

Hi David - you will have a great time on Kauai. This site is a great resource for non-commercial activities and there are a number of commercial companies that will take you boating, back country and surfing to name a few. You cannot drive around the entire island. The road is about 2.5 hours from Kee to Kokee. W

Teresa

May 17, 2009 7:39PM

We are visiting Kauai in August '09 and will be staying in Lihue. I'm thinking of changing our location to the North Shore for the beaches and scenery. We are an active family with a 18(boy) & 14 (girl) yr. olds, and we love the beach. We want to snorkel, kayak, hike, etc. What is your suggestion when traveling with teens.

Hi Teresa - other than shopping in Lihue or riding the small surf break at Kalapaki, you'll have to drive to find adventure. The North Shore has lots of exploring. W

Alex

Jun 08, 2009 8:22PM

We\'re planning to stay at the Kauai Beach resort this August. Are there any spots in this beach good for snorkeling? I have a 7 year old with me and I want to see some small reef fishes for the first time

we're heading to Kauai in 10 days, and weather.com's forecast for this week looks terrible - clouds and rain every day, all day. Please tell me this is not typical? I know Kauai does get rain showers, but not the all day variety, does it?

Beth - weather.com is going to report that kind of weather whenever we get Easterly Trades. The reality is that clouds come and go, and the rain is localized in certain areas of the island. The weather has been great (but we're gonna get some rain from Felica).

DavidH

Aug 15, 2009 12:19AM

Planning a trip in early/mid Sept that includes some moderate hiking, calm beach swimming & beginner level snorkeling. Is there a part of the island you\'d recommend more for those type of activities in Sept over others?

Hi David - I would choose the North shore for those activities in September.

Rick

Aug 23, 2009 12:52PM

We will be visiting Kauai the first week in Sept. We will be getting married that week there. What beach would be best for a mid morning ceremony with no crowds of people, and a scenic backdrop. Thanks.

Hi Rick - expect people at the most beautiful beaches like Hanalei, Makua. We really do suggest a local wedding coordinator to help you find a pono spot. W

camara

Oct 01, 2009 5:35PM

I grew up there I miss that place. :)

Daved

Nov 04, 2009 3:31PM

My wife and I are coming to visit our dughter in Kauai,in mid December 2009. We are thinking of flying to Lihue and staying somewhere on the island, but don,t know where we will find a good deal, good swiming beaches and a golf game or two. we plan to stay about 10 days and don,t know if we should break the vacATIN INTO 5 DAYS ON WEST COAST AND 5 DAYS ON NORTH COAST . ALL SOGGEStions welcome

Should we go Condo or Hotel, great views

Rick Minard

Dec 28, 2009 3:49AM

Wow, water temperature in the 70's blows me away. My wife and I are coming early February. What will the water temp be then? We've only been to the Oregon Coast and the water is pretty chilly.

Darby

Mar 04, 2010 1:47AM

looking at a family trip in June with some good beginner surf and lots of beach. 2 year old will be with us. Any recommendation as to what beaches or side of Kauai for that time of year?

Darby - Kalapaki is actually a very easy beginner spot and June is the season for South swells. Other than that, tune into our Ocean Report for daily conditions.

Elise

Apr 07, 2010 8:23PM

My husband and I will be going to Kauai End of Sept/Beginning of October and wondering whether we should stay in Poipu or Lihue at that time of the year. We definitely want a condo (or similar) on the ocean front and be able to enjoy the sunrise/sunset, swim and do activities on the rest of the island. I was told Lihue and kalapaki might be too cloudy/rainy most of the time during that time of the year..any suggestions or info you can offer? thank you!!

Dan v

Jun 14, 2010 11:40PM

our family (parents 44, kids 13 and 10) are coming to Kauai in mid July 2010 and staying at the Kaui Marriott. My wife an I went to Oahu and Maui in 2005. In Maui, we loved snorkeling at the Molokini crater, and the outdoor Luau at Lahaina. We are coming to Kauai to see more of Hawaii, but want our kids to have as good an experience with snorkeling and the luau. Are there any similar Luau to Lahaina? Any similar snorkeling experiences?

Tobiah finegan

Jun 19, 2010 5:33PM

Going to be staying in Lihue 06/26-0702. Been looking at surf reports all over and looks good for later this week. Is the 8 foot I am seeing for the S Beaches 8 ft Hawaiian or 8 ft Faces? Big Difference

Been surfing a long time but don't really feel like taking A 16 footer on the head.

So if head to double over head 6-12 faces stoked, where to go?

If it is 8 foot/16 foot plus island style where to go for a little less swell and still have fun?

Hi Tobiah - yes we measure surf in face height, per NWS standards. There are a number of surf spots in Poipu and each catches the swell differently so go check it out.

Dianna Sheets

Jul 25, 2010 8:36PM

I have been going to Kauai for the last 10 years from 1 week to 2 months at a time. This is almost my favorite beach because of the variety of conditions. It is calm on the north side of the bay and can get really rough on the south or breaker wall. Some guys don't want to waste energy swimming out so they as far out on the jetty as possible and jump over rocks into the surf. I love to watch that :) It has a great burger shack up on the road going away from the beach. I guess you would call that North West. I get way high up in the 'structure'... there are three stories, it feels like a tree house. I position myself to catch the trade winds and stay cool. Jeeze it's one of the most perfect things.... I'm hungry and tired from the ocean and they burger, fries and shake tastes so good... like heaven :)

My friend and I will be visiting Kauai on Dec 1 - 3 this year and want to stay at a hotel or condo on the beach, preferably one that will have good swimming that time of year. Can you help us?

Amy

Nov 09, 2010 6:18AM

we will be coming in the beginning of dec...we have both surfed before a bunch of times but not really comfy in big waves. how would the surfing be at Hanalei? or where would you recommend? what is the town like in Hanalei Bay? is there somewhere to buy groceries and rent surf boards?

Cindy

Nov 16, 2010 3:01AM

My fiance and I want to get married on a beach and are staying at the Marriott beach Club resort on Kalapaki Beach. Where do I start as far as learning about weddings performed someplace close to this resort??

Allison

Jan 25, 2011 4:02PM

My husband and I are planning a trip to Kauai in late March, and the main thing we want is to be able to walk to a swimmable beach from our resort. At that time of year, what's our best bet?

My family and I will be going to Kauai in the first week of June. Really excited and wanted to do some boogie boarding/snorkeling We are staying at The Point at poipu and wanted to know how far Hanalei Bay or Annini Beach is from there. What is the safest beach to Snorkel at?

Erik

Feb 28, 2012 12:41PM

I absolutely love this beach for swimming! Clear, level sandy bottom and you can walk out 100 yards and only be up to your chest in the water. Very nice and wide open; most people are behind the beach sunning poolside at the Marriott. I cannot understand why people would choose a pool over mother natures Big Pool just a few steps away, but that just means more room for me. The water can appear a little brown at times, but that is because there is a river which flows into the harbor and washes some sediment down; but it is all clean and still beautiful.

Brian

Mar 07, 2012 1:16PM

We are consider coming to Kauai for the first time in April 2012. We would like a nice beach where our 9 and 10 year olds can swim/play in the waves and where we can body surf and boogie board. Ideally, we would also have a pool to entertain the kids. A slide(s), lagoon or lazy rizer would be nice. What do you recommend?

Mollie

Mar 17, 2012 5:25PM

My husband and I are coming on May 13. Which beaches are the best during that time? I have been to Kauai once 9 years ago and my husband has never been! We are excited! :)

Kia

May 17, 2012 2:08PM

We will be on our Honeymoon in August, staying at the Marriott on the Bay. Will we have to worry about cruise ships in the harbor, interfering with our view?

Dani C.

May 08, 2013 8:53AM

Hi, what is the water temperature in Kalapaki Beach in early July?

Thank you,
Dani

Karolyn Godbey

Jun 10, 2013 11:28AM

What are the winds like at Kalapaki in May? We are thinking of spending a week there next May.

AM

Aug 17, 2013 6:20AM

Where are the best beaches for kids in late May early June? We want to swim, boogie board, and snorkel. Thanks.

Bill

Jan 05, 2014 2:36PM

Can the kids surf (ages 8) beginner at Kalapaki? Looking to go in the end of July, what is the surf like during that time of year?
Thank you

Stuart Brooks

Jan 31, 2014 8:38AM

Family staying in Kapaa for 6 days in early Feb..boogie boarding beaches you can recommend?

We are coming to Kalapaki Bay this weekend. What is the weather like this time of year...morning...afternoon...evening? Thank you for the info!

Marcia

Sep 17, 2015 11:46AM

We are 3 sisters coming on a cruise with Princess in Oct 2015. I just want to know that I understand correctly that Kalapaki is a public beach that we can use although we are not staying at the hotel. Do the have lounge chairs one can rent? We would like to have lunch in the hotel if the food is good.
Some advice would be helpful.

nahko

Oct 02, 2015 3:54PM

Marcia, yes, Kalapaki is a public beach. Actually by state law all beaches are public up to the high water mark.

There is a vendor that rents lounge chairs and umbrellas at the opposite end of the beach from the hotel. The hotel has their own chairs but you need to be a guest to use them.

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